1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220. (58 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 167 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 126 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 220 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 28.1 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1213 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
